Hi all:

Is it just me or do these cars just have crappy reception on the key fob
Replaced both batteries
It works but only just
Just wonderin because if its just me then I have a little more digging to do

Tks

Howard

 

I had the same problem. Turned out being dirty contacts. Pop open the fob, remove the guts and gently clean the contacts with rubbing alcohol, contact cleaner, etc.

 

I'm always cautious about responding on remotes because both the type and transmission frequency vary between Europe and North America. The following should apply - it's only the changeover date from early type to later which may be different.

The early XK8's had remotes with carbon impregnated buttons. Later ones had separate microswitches. On a '99 you'll probably have the early carbon type.

Both types are prone to wear but the early carbon ones are more troublesome. Eventually the carbon wears and makes irregular and then eventually no contact. The Lights button is likely to still be working OK because it gets used less than the Lock / Unlock buttons.

Other than buying a new remote from Jaguar (very expensive), sourcing a replacement on eBay (much less expensive), there's a number of fixes been reported successfully to renew the carbon using conductive paint. Here's an example of the product:

CaiKote

Graham

 

Tks for the replys
So it appears perhaps it is not a transmission reception problem
I am familiar with electronics
So now I know the problem is perhaps in the fob itself
Will take apart and check the contacts
Either dirty or needing rebuilding
Does not sound to difficult and will wait for a rainy day
And where I live I will not have to wait to long !!
Tks again

 

I posted exactly the same question a while back.
My remote is HOPELESSLY poor.
I have to point it at the car and wiggle it around, as if trying to 'seek' the reciever.
Sometimes the remote works quickly, at others, it takes ages to 'find' the correct target and then open the car.
I've done all the cleaning, new batts etc - no difference!
A new fob is on the cards....
Roy.

 

Roy,

I had one of my fobs repaired by a guy in Liverpool who lists on eBay. Send me a PM if the the details are any use to you.

Graham

 

Cleaning will help with consistency but these old key fobs don't have anywhere near the range of new models. I have to be within 50 feet on a good day for it to talk to my 97. I work with a guy who can remote start his diesel truck from the other side of the building. The late 90s fobs will never have that kind of range.

 

If you are complaining about the range/distance of reception.

For the coupe might be worth checking that the receiver cable hasn't been detached from the rear screen, when cleaning. It is at the top - comes out from the headlining.

 

I agree with Stumpy , it's a common fault ,

Nik